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Keeping up with the latest web trends isn't always the easiest thing to do these days. Web 2.0 has become the new standard for cutting edge design. If you've found yourself wondering what you can do to upgrade the look and functionality of your site, this How to Do Web 2.0 Design page will spotlight the most popular aspects of it.
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Tips
- Remember to find and cultivate your own style so that you stand out in the sea of other Web 2.0 sites.
- Effective, solid design will always work well despite the trend of the moment.
- Go easy on the flashier elements like starburst labels. They can get old very quickly.
- Always focus on having an intuitive navigation, good information flow and efficient use of available space.
- Don't use more than three columns unless you have a seriously good reason.
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Featured Video: Understanding Web 2.0 Photoshop Buttons
In this video, the instructor takes you through the process of making Web 2.0 style graphics. He shows you how to make rounded corners on a button while giving it a glossy, reflective look. This is part 1 of a series. The running time is 3:02.
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Introduction
If your site already has a good design, it won't take much time to add a few elements which will bring it up-to-date. Some of the areas covered in this article will just support the common rules of successful design while others contrast drastically with the old web styles. Interestingly enough, technology plays an essential role in Web 2.0. -
User Friendly Layout
Now that the Internet has been around for quite sometime, more and more people are recognizing the importance of user friendly design. Your page needs to be open, inviting and easy to use. If a reader has to work too hard to understand and use your site, they will just move on.- Choose a simple, clean layout.
- Fonts should be large and easy on the eyes.
- Place your important information towards the top and middle areas of the page.
- Avoid too many columns.
- Be careful to maintain a lot of whitespace.
- Use straight forward and minimalist navigation.
- Organize sections so that users can find what they need quickly.
Rich Graphics
If you take a tour of stylish pages today, you'll notice that overall they are much brighter and glossier than what was the norm some years ago. To get a more Web 2.0 appearance, pair a spacious layout with bold, strategically placed graphics.- Opt for larger logos and icons than before.
- Consider adding glossy, reflective icons and surfaces.
- Play with cute icons but use them sparingly.
- Use fewer icons and have them bring attention to your most important sections.
- Try adding a subtle gradient.
- Utilize big, professional quality photographs or illustrations.
- Create rich surfaces with textures.
- Add depth with well done cast shadows and dropshadows. (Don't over do it.)
- Make edges softer with rounded corners.
- Use coordinated color schemes that have an accent color that really pops.
- Integrate a custom human avatar image. Avatars are fun and add a personal touch.
Don't Forget the Tech
The Internet is boiling over with tons of technology that can make your web site more useful, entertaining and interactive. This doesn't mean that you should overwhelm your site with 50 gadgets. On the contrary, you should incorporate widgets and programs that add value to your content or look. Most importantly, the inclusion of social media connections is very Web 2.0. All of the major social networking sites, such as Twitter and Facebook, offer ways to seamlessly connect their services with your page.About this page
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